SECURITY POLICY

Principles of security policy
 

• The objective of Estonia's security policy is to ensure the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Estonia, the survival of the Estonian nation, language, and culture, territorial integrity, constitutional order, the security of the population, and the functioning of society.
• Maintenaning human dignity, the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, democratic governance, and the rule of law is the foundation of Estonian security. Estonia is part of the community of democratic nations, and its goal is to support the unity and persistence of this community. Estonia’s security is supported by an international relations system based on adherence to international law.
• Estonia's security policy is based on the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the right and freedom of each country to choose its own security solutions. Estonia's efforts to ensure its security are not aimed at any other country.
• Estonia will defend itself in all circumstances and against all threats, regardless of their origin, timing, or location, and against any overwhelming adversary. Estonia will never submit. The goal is to make aggression against Estonia unfeasible.
  Security is a whole. Estonia’s security policy is based on a broad security concept that takes into account all trends and factors influencing the country’s security. The implementation of security policy occurs based on the principle of society and the state as a whole.

• Estonia’s security starts with each and every one of us –the actions and preparedness of every individual. Estonia’s approach to national defence is broad, aiming to protect and prepare the country using all available military and non-military capabilities and resources, involving the public, private, and third sector.

• Estonia’s security is supported by its membership in NATO and the European Union and close cooperation with allies and other international partners. Estonia views its own security and that of its allies as indivisible.

• Due to the significantly worsened international security environment, Estonia as a whole must make efforts at a faster pace and on a larger scale to strengthen its security. To create a safer and more crisis-resistant environment, security considerations must be integrated into the development of policies and legislation, work processes, supply chains, infrastructure, international cooperation, and other areas.

• Ensuring security and crisis resilience in the country and society is an ongoing, continuous, and purposeful effort. It must be reflected in the thinking, preparedness, actions, and cooperation of constitutional institutions, executive government, local authorities, businesses, organizations, communities, and individuals. The state encourages and supports voluntary actions to increase crisis resilience and to resolve crises.

• Estonia follows the principle of task continuity in preparing for and solving crises: all must fulfill their roles both in normal situations and during crises or wars. In preparing for war and the most severe crises, Estonia is also ready to address less impactful crises. 

• The foundation of Estonia's security is ensured by a cohesive and united society. Human and civil rights are protected in Estonia, and all people are ensured equal opportunities and a living environment where they are cared for, live long, and are as healthy as possible, where inequality and poverty decrease, and where everyone is supported in a long work life of quality. Estonia’s economic environment is attractive, and education, science, and research activities are the foundation for a successful, forward-looking Estonia.